Nearly a century after it first lit up Broad Street, the DeSoto Theatre is preparing for a major transformation. The historic venue, which first opened its doors on August 5, 1929, is setting the stage for a 100th anniversary celebration in 2029, and with it, a sweeping renovation effort.
“This theater is more than a historic building. It’s a centerpiece of our downtown and a symbol of Rome’s artistic legacy,” said Michelle Picon, development director for the Historic DeSoto Theatre Foundation.
Picon recently appealed to the Rome City Commission for help in funding the upgrades. The foundation is requesting at least $150,000 from the city over the next three years, part of a broader $1.3 million plan to restore and modernize both the front-of-house and backstage areas.
The list of needed improvements is extensive. The stage, largely untouched since 1982, requires a new proscenium arch, upgraded lighting and audio systems, fresh stage curtains, improved rigging, and ADA-accessible features, including a ramp to the stage.
But the work won’t stop at the curtain. Plans for the backstage area include the construction of a third floor, a fire-safe stairwell, new dressing rooms that can double as classroom space, a utility entrance, and a loading dock to make the space more functional for performances and events.
Rome has invested in the DeSoto before, committing roughly $375,000 since 2008 for roof repairs, auditorium upgrades, renovated restrooms and concessions, and facade restoration.
The foundation hopes to lock in city support by December 1, with construction scheduled to begin in phases starting in 2026.
While the commission has yet to vote on the funding request, Mayor Craig McDaniel expressed appreciation for the DeSoto’s role in the community. “There’s no question the DeSoto is an important part of our city,” McDaniel said. “But we need to sit down and really evaluate how we can make this happen.”
